Spring Gathering, Harrogate
Kath and Lance, Graham and Rosemary were on site to welcome us all to the Harrogate Caravan Park in the Spring sunshine on the 19th March. There were twentyfour vans in total. The site had been opened early especially for the IH group so we felt very privileged. It was an excellent location for IHers to gather together and also to explore locally with a bus stop a short walk away on the main road for those who wanted to leave the van on site.
Harrogate was visited by everyone where the Spring flowers along the roadside and in the parks were spectacular. Other trips were made either by bus, train or van including Harlow Car RHS Gardens, Fountains Abbey, Wetherby and surrounding areas and the Railway Museum in York. The IH cyclists too found local routes to explore.
On the Friday morning we all gazed into the cloudy sky to catch a glimpse of the rare solar eclipse and our patience was rewarded. While we waited we discussed the various methods of viewing safely; the use of a colander and a piece of paper was perhaps the most interesting.
One afternoon Ian and Nicola with young Daniel drove across from Knottingley to see us all. Now sales are conducted through dealers it was a good opportunity to meet them again and chat. Daniel soon found a companion for the afternoon and kept Jim fully occupied, so Mum and Dad had time to chat to everyone.
The Travellers Rest pub was nearby and provided a warm venue for us to meet together as a group and on occasions enjoy an evening free of cooking. The results of the quiz set by Ray and Judy were given here on the Monday evening after the group meal. It tested our knowledge of world towns and cities and our ingenuity trying to interpret the clues. The answers always seem so obvious when they are read out! You can now find the answers on this site if you missed them on the night. No one scored 100% but Martin and Beryl won first prize.
On the Sunday morning our "marshals" led a walk from the site along footpaths and quiet roads through the local area where we passed under the spectacular viaduct. The Travellers Rest was a welcome stopping point before we returned to site.
Thank you to Kath and Lance, Graham and Rosemary for organising this event for us all. The question now is where will our next meet be and who will volunteer to organise it?